This Coconut Curry Baked Cod features tender fish fillets coated in a rich, creamy coconut curry sauce. The blend of spices, combined with the richness of coconut milk, creates a dish that is both aromatic and indulgent.
The freshness of cilantro as a garnish provides a perfect balance, and the mild sweetness of the coconut milk complements the subtle heat of the curry. This recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner, offering a unique twist on traditional baked cod. It’s a delightful meal for seafood lovers looking for something exciting and different!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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4 cod fillets
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon curry powder
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1/2 cup coconut milk
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon ginger, grated
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a small bowl, mix together the curry powder, coconut milk, lime juice, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper.
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Place the cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle the coconut curry mixture over the top.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Coconut Curry Baked Cod: A Flavorful Seafood Delight
If you’re looking for a simple, yet incredibly flavorful dish, the Coconut Curry Baked Cod is the perfect choice. This recipe combines tender cod fillets with a creamy coconut curry sauce that brings a touch of exotic flavor to your table. With its vibrant spices, aromatic curry, and the richness of coconut milk, this dish is sure to impress both your family and guests alike.
Cod is a versatile, mild-flavored white fish that absorbs the flavors of any dish it’s cooked in. When paired with a coconut curry sauce, it takes on an entirely new dimension, balancing the delicate nature of the fish with the richness and complexity of the curry. Whether you’re new to cooking seafood or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to prepare and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal.
Why Choose Cod for This Recipe?
Cod is one of the most popular fish in the world for good reason. It’s mild, flaky, and pairs well with a wide range of flavors. Unlike stronger fish like salmon or tuna, cod has a gentle flavor that makes it ideal for recipes like Coconut Curry Baked Cod, where the sauce and spices play a key role in flavoring the fish. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to try fish dishes without feeling overwhelmed by a “fishy” taste.
Additionally, cod is an excellent source of lean protein, low in fat, and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, and omega-3 fatty acids. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add more seafood to their diet in a healthy and delicious way.
The Magic of Coconut Curry Sauce
The coconut curry sauce is what truly sets this dish apart. With a blend of curry powder, coconut milk, lime juice, garlic, and ginger, it creates a balanced fusion of savory, spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors. The coconut milk adds a smooth, velvety texture that complements the fish perfectly, while the curry powder infuses the sauce with a mild warmth and depth of flavor.
The lime juice brightens the sauce, adding a fresh tang that cuts through the richness of the coconut milk, making the dish light and refreshing despite its creamy base. The garlic and ginger lend their distinct aromatic qualities, bringing an additional layer of complexity to the sauce.
This sauce can be customized to suit your tastes. If you like your curry spicy, you can add some chopped chili or red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of curry powder or even use a mild curry paste. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and the ability to adjust the sauce to your liking.
How to Make the Perfect Coconut Curry Baked Cod
Making Coconut Curry Baked Cod is incredibly simple. It starts by drizzling the coconut curry sauce over the cod fillets before baking them. The fish absorbs the flavors of the sauce, becoming tender and flavorful as it cooks. Unlike frying, baking the cod allows it to retain its moisture and delicate texture, making for a healthier meal without compromising on taste.
The key to success with this recipe is making sure the fish is cooked just right. Overcooking cod can make it dry, so be sure to watch the fish carefully. It should flake easily when tested with a fork, but still remain moist and tender inside.
For the best results, serve the dish immediately after baking, garnished with fresh cilantro. The vibrant green herbs not only add a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that enhances the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
While Coconut Curry Baked Cod is delicious on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to complete the meal. Consider serving it over steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the delicious curry sauce. The mild flavor of these grains complements the bold curry and ensures a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
You can also serve this dish with sautéed vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini, for added color and nutrition. The freshness of these vegetables balances the richness of the coconut curry sauce and adds more texture to the dish.
For a lighter option, you can serve the cod with a side of mixed greens or a fresh cucumber salad. These crisp, refreshing sides provide a nice contrast to the warm, creamy curry.
Health Benefits of Coconut Curry Baked Cod
This dish offers several health benefits, making it a great addition to any balanced diet. Cod is low in calories and high in protein, making it ideal for those who are watching their weight or looking to build lean muscle. It’s also packed with essential nutrients, such as vitamin B12, which supports nerve function, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
The coconut milk in the curry sauce adds a dose of healthy fats. While coconut milk is rich and creamy, it contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily digested and used by the body for energy. This makes it a great option for those looking to boost their energy levels without consuming heavy, unhealthy fats.
Moreover, the spices in the curry sauce, including ginger and garlic, have numerous health benefits. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion, while garlic has been linked to improved heart health and immune system support.
A Versatile Recipe for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or meal prepping for the week ahead, Coconut Curry Baked Cod is a versatile dish that suits any occasion. Its bold flavors make it perfect for impressing guests, yet it’s simple enough for an everyday meal. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal or simply relax and enjoy the cooking process.
The ingredients are easy to find, and the cooking method is fuss-free, making it accessible to both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. If you’re someone who enjoys exploring different flavor profiles, this dish offers an exciting introduction to coconut curry that can be adjusted and customized based on your preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Coconut Curry Baked Cod is a must-try dish for anyone who loves bold, flavorful seafood. The mild and flaky cod pairs beautifully with the rich coconut curry sauce, creating a balanced, satisfying meal that will delight your taste buds. With its ease of preparation and the ability to customize the flavors, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits, offering a nutritious way to enjoy fish and coconut curry in one dish. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the vibrant flavors, makes it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, Coconut Curry Baked Cod is sure to impress. So, why not give it a try and bring the flavors of the sea and the warmth of curry to your next meal? It’s a dish that celebrates the beauty of simple ingredients transformed into something truly extraordinary.